Back-to-Basics.net stresses soil fertility management

Jun 02, 2006

A popular educational tool just received a re-design and an array of new resources for growers and dealers interested in proper soil fertility management.

Back-to-Basics.net, the industry's top soil fertility information source for years, now sports a fresh new look and easier navigation to a richer and more diverse supply of practical ideas and research data.

“We wanted to make Back-to-Basics.net even more useful to dealers and growers,” says Randy Groff, manager of marketing and communications for The Mosaic Company. “So, we didn't just add more information, we made it easier to access.”

A special new feature, E-News, will allow users to register online to receive timely soil fertility updates.

“E-News is a way for us to be proactive with the site's users by providing them with the very latest information,” Groff explains.

The new home page offers users a quick digest-type review of two popular features: Current Fertility Issues and Agronomic Tips. Each item can then be accessed for more in-depth information about the topic desired. In addition, the re-designed site now offers immediate links to archived articles and information.

“The users of Back-to-Basics.net over the years have grown to appreciate the site's depth and diversity,” Groff says. So, any re-design, we thought, should improve ease of use and make information even more accessible.

The Back-to-Basics site will continue to offer all the features users have come to rely on and appreciate. Information on crop nutrient utilization, the environment, nutrient deficiency symptoms and the weather is all still there. Plus popular educational tools like the fertility checklist and soil fertility quizzes are still available to enhance any training experience.

Respected university and Extension agronomists and soil scientists contribute to the site regularly. Agronomic professionals from the Potash & Phosphate Institute will continue to offer their insights on topics such as narrowing the yield gap, nutrient use efficiency and the nationwide soil test summaries.

Initially developed about seven years ago, Back-to-Basics.net is the core element of the Back-to-Basics educational initiative instituted by The Mosaic Company.

“Our goal has always been to provide the tools to dealers and growers that will help promote the importance of proper soil fertility. The re-designed Web site is one more way we can continue to support that commitment,” Groff says.